Disney Springs is always my first stop after landing at the Orlando airport since I put a transportation day in my itinerary in case of airport delays. Disney Springs offers a place to build the Disney excitement while providing lots of options in dining, entertainment and shopping. Here’s some of the best of Disney Springs with kids.
Table Service at Disney Springs
It’s a vacation, so take a break and treat yourself. After several visits to Disney Springs, I’ve sampled several different table service restaurants.
The BOATHOUSE –With its views of Lake Buena Vista enjoy an extensive menu of seafood and steaks. I loved the nautical theme and the service was attentive. Be sure and catch the vintage amphi-cars drive into the water, located close by.
STK–Specializing in grilled meats, like the filet, along with inventive sides with an upscale environment. The views from the second-story terrace offer sweeping views. I gushed over the parmesan truffle fries so I ate a week’s worth of carbs. The lil’ burgers, featuring wagyu beef, are tender tidbits of burger perfection.
The House of Blue Blues Brunch–Topping my list for comfort food. Served as an extensive buffet, I gorged myself on BBQ and southern favorites before the gospel choir lit up the stage with uplifting spirituals.
Rainforest Café–Another option for families with a familiar menu and don’t forget the T-Rex.
Quick Service Dining with Kids
Since I have three kids I save money by dining at quick service restaurants. With similar options and a family-friendly patio dining, quick service is my go-to for Disney Springs.
Wolfgang Puck Express –The kids wanted pizza so I walked away with a pepperoni pizza for under $15 for us to share.
Bongos Cuban Café Express–Offering Cuban-inspired meals, I sampled the Cuban Sandwich with slow-roasted pork and ham. The Cuban Criolla Beef is a hearty choice also.
Disney Food Trucks—Grab a quick bite then watch some entertainment.
Earl of Sandwich–If kids want sandwiches, try Earl’s. Another solid option for kids in a quick service format.
Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar–Take a kids on a trip around the world. Order an international flight of sodas and sample 16 different sodas. Super fun way for an afternoon pick-me-up and the rooftop views are hard-to-top.
Desserts and Coffee in Disney Springs
Did someone say dessert? I almost skipped dinner and went straight for dessert.
The Ganachery—Chocoholics beware. All the chocolate one could eat and then some.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC—With a girly cute bakery, I couldn’t say no.
Goofy’s Candy Company—Stop by the window and see how they make the magical confections.
Vivoli il Gelato—If it’s hot outside then cool off like the Italians. Eat gelato in a handful of flavors along with the tiny pastel spoons.
Aristocrepes—For the Francophiles, then crepes are the best treats.
Sprinkles–With a wide range of flavors, get everyone’s favorite cupcake. Also find a cupcake ATM outside.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop—Find its signature chocolate and ice cream too.
Starbucks—For a pick-me-up, find your favorite cuppa at Disney Springs.
Adulting Disney Springs Style
As soon as the sun sets, Disney Springs transforms from a family destination to the scene for dinner and cocktails.
Raglan Road Irish Pub—Find Irish eyes dancing and your favorite Irish brew or spirit. Inside an authentic Irish pub atmosphere along with dinner. Outside on the patio, enjoy drinks and entertainment.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar—With an atmosphere reminds me of an Indian Jones hangout, it’s a favorite. If the inside tables are full, head outside to watch the lights glitter off Lake Buena Vista.
Splitsville–Mix bowling and dinner. In-between games, I grabbed a slice of pizza, a slider and a sushi roll.
Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire—With a team of four, recover Imperial intelligence in a hyper-reality experience.
Family Entertainment at Disney Springs
Cirque Du Soleil’s La Nouba–With its own free-standing theater, catch a Cirque show. The theater features a more intimate seating arrangement that allows for better views.
AMC 24 Dine-In Theatre—Have dinner and see a movie at the same time.
House of Blues—Find a variety of acts along with its popular Sunday Gospel Brunch.
Aerophile–Kids love seeing the giant tethered balloon assent 400 feet into the air next to Lake Buena Vista. For the brave-hearted, seeing all the parks at once might be a bucket list experience.
Free Live Entertainment—Find lots of outdoor stages with live acts sprinkled throughout Disney Springs.
Top Things to do in Disney Springswith Kids
Splash Pad–With a park bench perfect for resting adults, I found the splash pad at the entrance of Disney Springs.
Spitting Stitch–If the kids loved the splash pad then check out Stitch,outside of the World of Disney.
Marketplace Carousel—The hand-painted Venetian carousel is a work of art to ride.
Marketplace Train Express—Offering littles another way to ride in Disney style.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique—Dress up your princess in a regal way with a make-over. Even the boys are playing dress-up at the boutique with pirate options.
Disney Springs Water Taxi–Is another fun way for families to explore Disney Springs.
Vintage Amphi-Cars—See a classic car roll into Lake Buena Vista.
Shopping at Disney Springs
Do all your shopping at Disney Springs.
LEGO Store–Even if you have a million pieces at home you have to check out the sculptures in and around the store. Really. The Hulk, a dragon, Buzz Lightyear and the list goes on.
Star Wars Galactic Outpost–Star Wars fans in the house? Then visit for gifts for kids and the first-generation fans too. The make-your-own light saber bar is a must for kids.
T-REX–The dino-loving kids and their families, find dinosaur bones and a whole lot more.
World of Disney–Start at the sprawling destination all your Disney gifts and souvenirs.
Disney Days of Christmas–Buy an ornament for your tree to remember your vacation.
D-Living—Offering all the housewares and deco items the Disney fan needs.
Disney Springs offers all the brands you love.
Anthropologie, Kipling, Sperry, Columbia Sportswear, Free People, Levis, Lilly Pulitzer and Zara.
Getting to and around Disney Springs
Disney Springs is located at 1480 Buena Vista Dr. I found lots of free parking and the lots are labeled. Valet parking is available.
I always use the Disney Springs Water Taxi to get around. My kids love it and it saves a few steps. With three stops, one at each end and one in the center, I was never far from a dock.
If you staying in the Buena Vista area, a complimentary bus runs frequently or take the bridge back to the Disney Springs Resort Area hotels. For guests of Saratoga Springs Resort, Disney Springs is right across Lake Buena Vista and I found a bridge.
Disney Cruises?
Looking for resorts and more information?
I’ve stayed at the following Walt Disney World resorts.
Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
I’ve stayed at the following Lake Buena Vista resorts.
Mystic Dunes Resort and Golf Club
If this is your first visit, don’t try to do everything.
I recommend the following guides for planning your trip. Even after several Walt Disney World trips, I still pack my guide.
Disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links. Consideration for brands mentioned.
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